NORTH ADAMS — After more than 20 years, North Adams-Jerome will have a new coach roaming the volleyball court this year.

“It’s pretty nervewracking,” said Head Coach Kelsey Cortright, who is taking over for the now-retired Darren Kittle.

Cortright has been the head coach of the junior varsity team while assisting Kittle for the past two seasons. She also coached the Acers, NA-J’s club team, played four years of varsity volleyball at NA-J, and two years at Albion College.

Describe your philosophy of coaching.

“I really believe in hard work and dedication. A player can have so much talent, but if they don't care, it's not going to go anywhere. If you work as hard as you can and you're there, you will get better. You have to get used to playing together and knowing what the person next to you will do. Darren and I have sort of the same philosophy. I was brought up under him. He emphasized blood, sweat, tears, and so do I.”